New American farmer waters garden plot at Webster Farm Community Garden, Lansing, MI (Source: Greater Lansing Food Bank, 2021)
The impact a simple garden can have on the community is nothing short of astonishing. Every year Greater Lansing Food Bank’s Garden Project offers an opportunity to experience one of Lansing, MI’s most amazing hidden gems. There are nearly 115 community gardens and urban farms in the Greater Lansing area and each has taken on a unique character of its own. In celebration of their 38th growing season, Garden Project invited the community out to their annual Garden Tour. Whether community members went by bike, foot, or car, the Garden Project team educated and provided a memorable experience for everyone.
The tours took place on Wednesday, July 21st and departed from two separate locations. The walking tour enjoyed a tour of the Eastside gardens starting from the Garden Project Resource Center. The cycling tour started from Hill Community Garden and continued through the Southside of Lansing. In addition, the community was also able to experience the gardens by a self-guided driving tour. All tours consisted of variety of diverse gardens, plants, and stories from the people who utilize these new and established community gardens. Further, the tours showcased a variety of ways the gardens are improving health and nutrition, building community, and creating a vibrant Lansing. What starts with committed donors, dedicated volunteers, and an exceptional staff results in a hopeful and stronger community.